If you're a solo traveler, you probably know that most travel companies require a single supplement – a surcharge of between 10% and 100% of the standard rate. However, Grand Circle travelers enjoy their own room or cabin at FREE or low-cost Single Supplements, saving up to $5000 per person.

FREE or Low-Cost Single Supplements

If you're a solo traveler, you probably know that most travel companies require a single supplement – a surcharge of between 10% and 100% of the standard rate. However, Grand Circle travelers enjoy their own room or cabin at FREE or low-cost Single Supplements, saving up to $5000 per person.

FREE Single Supplements on All Adventures and Extensions

If you're a solo traveler, you probably know that most travel companies require a single supplement – a surcharge of between 10% and 100% of the standard rate. However, OAT travelers enjoy their own room or cabin at no extra cost, saving up to $3795 per person.

Grand Circle Foundation: Single Supplements

There is a supplement of $425 for single room accommodations. Single rooms are very limited.

Day by Day Itinerary

Small Groups: Never more than 10-16 travelers—guaranteed!

Travel to Nepal with OAT and discover the mighty Himalayas, whose snowcapped peaks are the very rooftop of the world. Sinuous green terraces wind as far as the eye can see along mountain valleys. Prayer flags adorn lively temples that reveal ancient scrolls and exquisite carvings. This is Nepal. With OAT, you’ll trek on stone paths threading pristine hillsides and sweeping valleys … float on a river raft through untouched forest … and ride by elephantback through lush jungle.

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Travelers on the pre-trip extension to Bhutan: The Last Shangri-La join the main adventure today. This afternoon, we fly to Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. When we arrive at our hotel, we meet our Trip Leader, a Nepali, whose mission is to share the cities, land, people, and language of his or her homeland with us.

Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own in this vibrant city.

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Eager to introduce us to the captivating hub of activity that is Kathmandu, our Trip Leader will lead us on a walking tour of the city this morning. Kathmandu (4,265 feet) is the capital and largest city of Nepal. It is a bustling epicenter filled with spice sellers and artisans, rickshaws and sacred cows. Pilgrims make their way to local shrines as merchants sell their brightly colored and fragrant wares. Artisans gifted in their ancient techniques display woven fabrics and ceramic bowls made for temple offerings. The "old" city is filled with Buddhist and Hindu temples dating back to the 17th century; these shrines are well-worn by time while still vibrant in energy and spirit.

We make the short drive to Patan (4,429 feet), which sits across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu. Patan was developed on relatively thin layers of deposited clay and gravel in the central part of a dried ancient lake known as Nagdaha. The city was designed in the shape of the Buddhist Dharma-Chakra (Wheel of Righteousness). The four thurs, or mounds, located on the perimeter of Patan are known as the Ashoka Stupas, named for Emperor Ashoka, who visited Kathmandu with his daughter, Charumati, in 250 BC and erected the five stupas. These mounds are joined by more than 1,200 Buddhist and Hindu monuments of various shapes and sizes located throughout the city. Patan is known for its art and artisans—the region has produced the most artists and finest craftsmen in Nepali history, and their devotional artwork gives us stunning displays of Nepal's fused cultures.

We explore Patan’s Durbar Square, one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nepal that are preserved within a protected Monument Zone. As Durbar translates to “palace,” the term “Durbar Square” is used to describe any plaza opposite a royal palace. But while there are several Durbar Squares across Nepal, Petan’s is renowned for being one of the most picturesque, with its intricately carved architecture, delicate wind chimes, and ornate fountains.

After lunch on our own, we’ll visit the holiest temple in Nepal: the Boudhanath Stupa. Like Mecca is to Muslims, Boudhanath Stupa, standing 36 meters high, is the main pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. Tens of thousands of pilgrims make the journey each year. The temple’s hemispherical dome represents the emptiness from which everything begins; rising above the dome, the harmika shines the Buddha’s eyes in four directions that symbolize his total awareness. When Tibetan refugees entered Nepal, they settled around the Boudhanath Stupa, creating a small village that elicits the holy atmosphere of Tibet’s sacred city, Lhasa.

Tonight, our group will gather for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant.

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At dawn, you may elect to join us for an optional flight to Everest (weather permitting). This iconic mountain is known in Tibet as Chomolungma, which means “Mother of the Universe” or “Goddess Mother of the Earth.” The Nepali name is Sagarmatha, or “Goddess of the Sky.” Avid climbers call this mountain “the ultimate climb,” and with its astounding summit height of 29,029 feet above sea level, Mount Everest earns the title of the tallest peak on Earth. Rising majestically out of the Himalayan range, its snowy peak and intricate geography offer us breathtaking views from the air.

Or, you can enjoy some time at leisure before we all embark on a tour of Bhaktapur (Bhagdaon). The “City of Devotees,” Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning four square miles. The city was the crown jewel of the Malla Empire 700 years ago, and today features its historic Durbar Square, ancient courtyards, holy temples, and twisting streets where artisans still practice age-old traditions. After lunch at a local restaurant, we'll explore some of these sites on a guided tour.

This evening, we'll return to Kathmandu for a Home-Hosted Dinner with members of a Nepali family, affording us an opportunity to experience local cuisine and learn about everyday life here in the Himalayas.

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This morning, we fly to Pokhara (3,080 feet), a vital city along the ancient trade route from Tibet to India built around Lake Phewa. From our plane, we may see panoramic views of impressive canyons carved out by the Seti River and defined by the fast rise of the Annapurna mountain range. Pokhara boasts a number of natural phenomena such as a waterfall that plunges and disappears into a hole and a stretch of the Seti River that disappears into a small opening in the canyon wall.

Before our journey begins, we meet our trek guide for a briefing. Then we begin our trek amidst terraced farmland and wooded hillsides. Walking downhill as we follow the lower foothills of the Annapurnas, intoxicating views of the Pokhara Valley surround us. As we enter the Modi River Valley, we hear the rush of flowing river and may find many colorful birds and butterflies fluttering on the riverbanks.

After approximately an hour of walking with our light daypacks, we stop for a packed lunch along the route. After lunch, we continue to follow the Modi River until we approach Sanctuary Lodge (3,362 feet). Sanctuary Lodge, with its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere, offers views of Macchapuchare, or Fishtail Mountain, a sacred peak that has never been summitted. While this famous peak is less than 7,000 meters high, it is known for its twin peaks and its startling beauty.

The balance of the afternoon is yours to simply relax and enjoy the view. Later we'll have afternoon tea and a roundtable discussion on life in Nepal. We dine this evening on the simple, traditional fare of the Modi River Valley at our lodge.

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As the sun rises at our lodge, mountain silhouettes transform into dramatic snowy peaks against a crystal blue sky. Join us for tea and coffee as we take in the unfolding of the landscape before us. Then, after breakfast, we begin our morning trek to the village of Birethanti (3,382 feet) passing through hamlets and forests. The houses of Birethanti seem to naturally rise out of the hillside, in perfect time and meter with the terraced rice fields. These velvety green “steps” that cascade down the hillside are a testament to the care and hard work of the people that live and work on the land. Upon entering this ancient village, and due to our small group size, we have the chance to interact with the villagers as they move through their day of feeding the animals, farming and caring for their children.

We return to the lodge for lunch and then you are free to explore the riverbanks and surrounding land at your own pace.

We dine at the lodge before retiring for the evening.

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Day 8

A Day in the Life of a Nepali village • Visit local school • Lunch with a Gorkha family

This morning, we embark on A Day in the Life of a Nepali village, a day of discovery during which we'll learn firsthand what it’s like to live in the shadow of the Annapurnas. First, we’ll enjoy a chance to meet local children in their school (when in session) which is supported in part by Grand Circle Foundation. Though formal education has existed in Nepal for 150 years, for the first century it was only available to members of the royal family. It has only been the last five decades that ordinary Nepali children were able to enjoy schooling as a result of the popular democratic uprising that ended the rule of the royal family. Today, five million students fill more than 20,000 schools (from elementary schools to universities). You’ll get to know a few of these promising young people when we visit.

Then we depart for nearby Tomejhong village, where we'll explore and spend time with the hospitable people who live here. A Gorkha family will join us for lunch to share insight into their traditions and daily life. The Gorkha people arrived in western Nepal from India centuries ago, and trace their roots to the Rajput clan—part of the Kshatriya, or warrior class—from classic Hindu tradition. Known for their military prowess, courage, and loyalty, many Gorkhas were recruited by the British Army during their occupation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Their culture is a fascinating blend of their Hindu roots and local traditions like shamanism and Tibetan Buddhism, as we'll learn during this exclusive opportunity for real cultural exchange.

Back at the lodge, we’ll enjoy leisure time in the late afternoon, then come together for dinner.

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After enjoying breakfast, we begin our transfer back to Pokhara with a stop at a beautiful waterfall. Set in a valley where Asia’s ancient civilizations crept down from the highlands of Tibet and the Indo-Gangetic Plain, Pokhara marks an important stop along an age-old trade route. The mountains around this serene tropical valley shoot up starkly toward the sky, leaping upwards of 26,000 feet and disappearing into the misty shroud that drapes about their shoulders. As lofty symbols of man’s highest hopes and the source of eternal inspiration, these peaks are considered sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and followers of Tibet’s indigenous Bon traditions alike. Machapuchare, the fishtail crown at the center of the Annapurnas, is off-limits to climbers because of its association with the high god Shiva, who is said to live high on its slopes with his consort, Pavarti, legs crossed in meditation upon a bed of glacial stillness.

We arrive in Pokhara and stroll through a market before lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon is free for you to browse among the lakeside shops of Pokhara or relax in the lodge gardens before dinner at a local restaurant.

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We enjoy breakfast at our lodge this morning, then we visit the International Mountain Museum (IMM). The IMM is the gateway for climbers and mountain enthusiasts, and the organization is working to support the people of the Himalayas while also bringing the majesty of this towering and expansive range to the international community. The IMM comprises four galleries, a research center, events, educational activities and climbing opportunities and will provide us with comprehensive information about the Himalayan range.

After lunch together at a local restaurant, the balance of the day, including dinner, is on your own.

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Today we begin our rafting journey along the Seti River (2,500 feet). This animated river runs through Pokhara and displays some visually amazing feats—at one point it appears to be only two meters wide, while its massive volume of water continues to flow, hidden by incredible depths. We drive to our rafting launch site after breakfast and receive information and instructions from our river guides.

Then we board our American-made raft and let our experienced crew navigate the three-hour ride. As there is no road access to this area, the views of plant and wildlife are truly untouched and thrilling. Along its banks, women wash clothes, men fish with sticks and cloth nets, and children swim and play.

We face a few sections of Class II rapids, where there may be some rough water with waves up to 3 or 4 feet, and perhaps some rocks and drops that require maneuvering by our expert guides. After a picnic lunch on the Seti’s shores, our afternoon rafting follows smooth, easy waters. We land on the banks of the river to settle into our safari-style camp surrounded by luscious forest. Dinner tonight is followed by a campfire beneath an endless starry sky.

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After breakfast this morning, our guides lead us on a trek to a remote village where we'll walk through a bird-filled jungle (2,000 feet).

We return to camp for lunch, and the afternoon is ours to relax in the camp’s gardens and hammocks or to walk the bird-filled bank of the Seti looking for white rumped vultures and purple swamp-hens. Or, take a refreshing dip in the warm Seti River. You may also ask your Trip Leader for suggestions on local hikes.

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We begin our final rafting leg this morning. Savor the images of clear, rushing water, lush jungle foliage and villagers waving from the banks. We raft for about two hours, observing riverside villages and plentiful birdlife. Our rafts and experienced Nepalese crew expertly navigate five sections of Class II rapids and one patch of Class III rapids (especially after monsoon season) as we travel to our end point. After bidding farewell to our faithful rafting guides, we set off overland to Chitwan and enjoy lunch at our lodge.

The next chapter of our adventure begins when the Sal forest of the Chitwan jungle meets the wide and beautiful valley of the Rapti River. Broad grasslands sweep north to the Mahabharata range and virgin jungle extends south to the Churia hills. For centuries, the dense jungle covering the foothills of the Himalayas formed an impenetrable barrier for Nepal, keeping it a hidden and mysterious land. The indigenous Tharu people, however, have spent generations living off this fertile land. Following lunch, we board ox carts and take in our lush surroundings as we make our way to a Tharu village. Tharu women are adept at transforming the exterior walls of buildings into vibrant works of art; as we observe their skill, we are greeted by the villagers and given glimpses into their lives and homes before we return to our lodge.

When travelers began to explore Nepal, Royal Chitwan National Park (1,000 feet) was established to help the jungle remain protected, pristine and full of adventure. We spend our early evening in a discussion with a naturalist who outlines the history and features of the park we will be experience tomorrow. Tonight we share dinner and reflect on our remarkable day.

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Today we begin our exploration of the Royal Chitwan National Park (1,000 feet), the oldest national park in Nepal. The park lies in the subtropical inner Terai lowlands of South-Central Nepal. Designated as a World Heritage Site in 1984, the park covers a pristine area with a unique ecosystem of significant value to the world. It contains the Churiya hills, ox-bow lakes and flood plains of Rapti, Reu, and Narayani rivers. Formerly, the Chitwan Valley was well known for big-game hunting and until 1950 was exclusively managed as a hunting reserve for the Rana Prime Ministers and their guests. In 1963, the area south of the Rapti River was demarcated as a rhinoceros sanctuary. In 1970, His late Majesty King Mahendra approved, in principle, the creation of Royal Chitwan National Park.

Our morning begins with a walk and canoe ride through the jungle. Our accompanying naturalist points out the flora and fauna thriving here in Chitwan as we search for endangered birds, such as the Bengal florican and the Black stork.

We return to the lodge for lunch and early afternoon relaxation before we embark on an exploration of the park from an entirely different perspective. A perch on the back of an elephant affords us the perfect vantage point to view all that this park has to offer. Elephants move fluently through the jungle with its thick tree cover and tall elephant grass. There are more than 43 species of mammals, more than 450 species of birds, and more than 45 species of amphibians and reptiles in the park. After our elephant trek, we return to the lodge for a traditional Tharu dance and dinner.

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After breakfast, we enjoy a discussion with our naturalist about local elephants and learn about regional efforts to protect this beloved and valuable animal.

Following this discussion, we drive to the airport and fly back to the bustling city of Kathmandu (4,265 feet) via Bharatpur where we'll stop for lunch. Our Trip Leader accompanies us to our hotel as our small group readjusts to city life after days surrounded by the quiet of the Himalayas, the rush of the Seti River and the cacophony of animal calls in the jungle of Chitwan. Next, we'll discover Pashupatinath, the most sacred temple of the Hindu god, Shiva, who is also known as Pashupati. This pagoda-style temple boasts gold-robed copper rooftops and silver-crowned doorways.

This evening we toast the memories of our journey during a special Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.

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Extensions

Few travelers have ever heard of Bhutan—much less passed through its majestic (but remote) borders. The kingdom cautiously controls tourism to protect its legacy as one of the world’s top ten biodiversity hotspots. Here is a unique opportunity to experience a magical, mystical world of elaborate temple-fortresses, ancient customs, and mind-boggling Himalayan scenery.

The Himalayas are your companion as you continue your adventures on the rooftop of the world with eight nights in timeless, ethereal Tibet—the spiritual center of Buddhism. We’ll explore beyond the capital of Lhasa to the central valley cities of Gyantse and Shigatse, where we delve deep into the powerful spiritual core of Tibetan culture.

Optional Tours

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Mount Everest flight

Day 5 $215 per person

At dawn, you may elect to enjoy an optional flight to Everest, known in Tibet as Sagarmatha or “Goddess of the Sky.” Avid climbers call this mountain “the ultimate climb,” and with its astounding summit height of 29,029 feet above sea level, Mount Everest earns the title of the tallest peak on Earth. Rising majestically out of the Himalayan range, its snowy peak and intricate geography offer us breathtaking views from the air.

Traveler Reviews

There's no better way to learn what a trip is like than from the firsthand experiences of your fellow travelers, and our Traveler Reviews are the real deal—unbiased and unedited—giving you an honest appraisal of the experiences that await you on this trip.

Please note: If you have taken this trip, please log into your My Account & return to this page. You will be prompted to post your review. Reviews are limited to 10,000 characters. Due to our moderation process, please allow up to 72 hours for your review to appear.

Striving for Excellence

Our #1 commitment is delivering the best travel experience at the best value, so we take feedback from our travelers seriously as we strive to improve what we do. And one of the best ways for us to measure how travelers have rated our trips—including their experiences and the value we offer—is from our post-trip surveys, sent in by travelers.

Ratings based on percentage of travelers who rated these features "Excellent".

Overall Trip Excellence

72%

Trip Leader Excellence

100%

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Questions and Answers

Want to know more about one of our adventures? Now, when you post a question, travelers who have been on that trip can provide you with an honest, unbiased answer based on their experience—providing you with a true insider’s perspective.

Questions and Answers

Want to know more about one of our adventures? Now, when you post a question, travelers who have been on that trip can provide you with an honest, unbiased answer based on their experience—providing you with a true insider’s perspective.

Weather & Regional

Before you travel, we encourage you to learn about the region of the world you'll discover on this trip. From weather and currency information to details on population, geography, and local history, you'll find a comprehensive introduction to your destinations below. Visit our “What to Know” page to find information about the level of activity to expect, vaccination information resources, and visa requirements specific to this vacation.

Nepal’s weather is generally predictable. There are two seasons—the dry season from October to May and the rainy, monsoon season from June to September. About 80 percent of the rain falls during the rainy period, so the remainder of the year is relatively dry. Spring and autumn (March, April, and October) are the most pleasant seasons; winter temperatures drop to freezing with a high level of snowfall in the mountains. The hottest time of year is late spring and summer, when temperatures range from 83 degrees F in the hill regions to more than 104 degrees F in the Chitwan region. Humidity is generally high year round, comparable to Atlanta or San Francisco. The highest humidity is usually coincides with the rainy season from June or July through September.

Jan

Avg. High60

Avg. Low36

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.5

Feb

Avg. High64

Avg. Low39

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.2

Mar

Avg. High69

Avg. Low44

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.5

Apr

Avg. High75

Avg. Low50

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.8

May

Avg. High77

Avg. Low56

Avg. Inches of Precipitation2

June

Avg. High78

Avg. Low61

Avg. Inches of Precipitation3.7

July

Avg. High76

Avg. Low63

Avg. Inches of Precipitation5.2

Aug

Avg. High77

Avg. Low61

Avg. Inches of Precipitation5.2

Sept

Avg. High74

Avg. Low59

Avg. Inches of Precipitation3.5

Oct

Avg. High73

Avg. Low53

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.7

Nov

Avg. High69

Avg. Low44

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0

Dec

Avg. High63

Avg. Low38

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.5

Area: 91,454 square miles

Capital: Kathmandu

Languages: Nepali is the official language; Maithali, Bhojpuri, Tharu, Tamang, Newar, Magar, and Awadhi are also spoken.

Geography: Nepal is typically thought of as mountainous. But it is actually home to widely diverse landscapes and ecosystems. There are three geographic areas or belts running from west to east: mountain, hill, and plains.

Time zone: Nepal is on Standard Time, 10.75 hours ahead of U.S. EST. When it is 6am in New York, it is 4:45pm in Kathmandu.

It’s easy to understand foreign currency with our Currency Cheat Sheet. Simply choose the currency you will be using on your trip from the drop-down menu below. The pop-up window will display the real-time conversion of the U.S. dollar to your selected currency.

The Nepalese rupee is the official currency of Nepal. Banknotes and coin denominations are as follows:

Tibet, due to its unique geographical characteristics, is cold in winter, cool in summer, and generally dry, receiving only 18 inches of rain or snow a year. Sunlight is extremely intense. The thin air neither blocks nor holds heat, so sunshine feels warm, shadows are chilly, and temperatures can vary greatly within a day, exceeding 84 degrees in summer, and plunging below 40 degrees the same night. Lhasa's nighttime lows in winter are around 16 degrees. The higher you go the colder it gets, and the winds in winter are ferocious. If you are traveling to Tibet in the months of November, December, January, February, or March, it is important to bring a warm winter jacket.

Jan

Avg. High47

Avg. Low18

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0

Feb

Avg. High49

Avg. Low23

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.1

Mar

Avg. High55

Avg. Low30

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.2

Apr

Avg. High61

Avg. Low36

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.4

May

Avg. High68

Avg. Low43

Avg. Inches of Precipitation1.4

June

Avg. High73

Avg. Low50

Avg. Inches of Precipitation3.3

July

Avg. High73

Avg. Low51

Avg. Inches of Precipitation5.7

Aug

Avg. High71

Avg. Low51

Avg. Inches of Precipitation5

Sept

Avg. High69

Avg. Low47

Avg. Inches of Precipitation2.8

Oct

Avg. High64

Avg. Low37

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.3

Nov

Avg. High55

Avg. Low26

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.1

Dec

Avg. High48

Avg. Low19

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0

Area: 460,000 square miles

Capital: Lhasa

Languages: Mandarian is the official language; various Tibetan dialects are also spoken.

Location: Tibet, as part of China, is bordered by Nepal, India, Bhutan, and Burma.

Geography: Tibet rests on the Tibetan plateau, the highest region in the world. With an average elevation of 16,000 feet, it is often referred to as the “rooftop of the world.” Mountain peaks prevent moisture from reaching the plateau, so it tends to have a dry climate. However, some of the region’s major rivers have their source here: the Yangtze and Yellow rivers flow east into China, the Ganges runs south to India, and the Mekong flows southeast to Vietnam.

Time zone: Tibet is on Beijing Time, twelve hours ahead of U.S. EST. When it is 6am in New York, it is 6pm in Lhasa.

Please note: Due to the reluctance of the Chinese government to release statistics on Tibet these figures may not be accurate or may be incomplete. Furthermore, China’s time zone is regulated so that the entire country is officially on Beijing time.

It’s easy to understand foreign currency with our Currency Cheat Sheet. Simply choose the currency you will be using on your trip from the drop-down menu below. The pop-up window will display the real-time conversion of the U.S. dollar to your selected currency.

The Renminbi (RMB) is the official currency of Tibet. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows:

Bhutan has a wide range of climactic conditions, with areas at lower elevations having cool, dry winters and hot, wet summers. Areas at higher elevations, such as Thimphu and Paro, experience summers and winters much cooler than in the lowlands. Temperatures in Thimphu, located 7,218 feet above sea level in west-central Bhutan, range from approximately 59 to 78.8 degrees F during monsoon season (June through September) but drop to between about 24.8 and 60.8 degrees F in January.

Jan

Avg. High35

Avg. Low1

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.3

Feb

Avg. High34

Avg. Low5

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.6

Mar

Avg. High39

Avg. Low14

Avg. Inches of Precipitation1

Apr

Avg. High44

Avg. Low22

Avg. Inches of Precipitation1.3

May

Avg. High50

Avg. Low30

Avg. Inches of Precipitation1.2

June

Avg. High54

Avg. Low38

Avg. Inches of Precipitation2.1

July

Avg. High55

Avg. Low41

Avg. Inches of Precipitation3.9

Aug

Avg. High55

Avg. Low40

Avg. Inches of Precipitation4.2

Sept

Avg. High53

Avg. Low36

Avg. Inches of Precipitation2.4

Oct

Avg. High47

Avg. Low23

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.9

Nov

Avg. High42

Avg. Low12

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.2

Dec

Avg. High38

Avg. Low4

Avg. Inches of Precipitation0.1

Area: 14,987 sqare miles

Capital: Thimphu

Languages: Dzongkha is the official language; varcious Tibetan and Nepalese dialects are also spoken.

Location: Bhutan is bordered by China (the Tibet Autonomous Region) and India.

Geography: Bhutan lies between the Tibet Autonomous Region to the north and the Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh to the west and south. The Himalayas dominate the north of the country, and blizzards generated in the north each winter often drift southward into the central highlands. The highlands are the most populous part of the nation; and are characterised by their many rivers, isolated valleys, and the expansive forests that cover seventy percent of the nation.

Time zone: Bhutan is on Bhutan Time, eleven hours ahead of U.S. EST. When it is 6am in New York, it is 5pm in Thimphu.

It’s easy to understand foreign currency with our Currency Cheat Sheet. Simply choose the currency you will be using on your trip from the drop-down menu below. The pop-up window will display the real-time conversion of the U.S. dollar to your selected currency.

The ngultrum is the monetary unit of Bhutan. Banknote and coin denominations are as follows:

What to Know

For more detailed information about this trip, download our Travel Handbook below. This document covers a wide range of information on specific areas of your trip, from passport, visa, and medical requirements; to the currencies of the countries you’ll visit and the types of electrical outlets you’ll encounter. This handbook is written expressly for this itinerary. For your convenience, we've highlighted our travelers' most common areas of interest on this page.

What to Expect

Pacing

Brisk paced, with no more than 2 nights in most locations, with 2 days rafting and 3 days hiking

Expect delays in regional air service

Physical requirements

Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids

You must be able to walk 5 miles unassisted and participate in 2.5-3 hour treks

Must not have health conditions which preclude climbing to high altitudes

Altitude

Elevations up to 5,000 feet

Climate

Prepare for humidity and heat in excess of 90°F during the day, during summer, and as low as 50°F at night

Temperatures drop to about 50-60°F between October-March, and buses and hotels are not heated

Terrain

Travel over city streets, rugged paths, and unpaved roads

Trekking through foothills that can be steep and slippery

Rafting down a river with Class II-III rapids

Agility and balance required in most situations

Transportation

Travel by 18-passenger minibus, canoe, river raft, and elephant back

Accommodations & Facilities

Accommodations include a riverside camp with permanent tents, attached bathrooms, and solar-heated showers; basic but comfortable lodges; and modest hotels

Electricity may be unreliable due to solar power; and heat and hot water may be limited

Cultural insight

We may see people living in poverty, which could be distressing for some travelers

Travel Documents

Passport

Your passport should meet these requirements for this itinerary:

It should be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return to the U.S.

It should have the recommended number of blank pages (refer to the handbook for details).

The blank pages must be labeled “Visas” at the top. Pages labeled “Amendments and
Endorsements” are not acceptable.

Visas

U.S. citizens will need a visa (or visas) for this trip. In addition, there may be other entry requirements that also need to be met. For your convenience, we’ve included a quick reference list, organized by country:

Nepal: Visa required.

India: Visa required.

Bhutan (optional extension): Visa required.

Tibet (optional extension): Entry permit required.

Travelers who are booked on this adventure will be sent a complete Visa Packet— with instructions, applications, and a list of visa fees—approximately 100 days prior to their departure. (Because many countries limit the validity of their visa from the date it is issued, or have a specific time window for when you can apply, we do not recommend applying too early.)

If you are not a U.S. citizen, do not travel with a U.S. passport, or will be traveling independently before/after this trip, then your entry requirements may be different. Please check with the appropriate embassy or a visa servicing company. To contact our recommended visa servicing company, PVS International, call toll-free at 1-800-556-9990.

Vaccinations Information

For a detailed and up-to-date list of vaccinations that are recommended for this trip, please visit the CDC’s “Traveler’s Health” website. You can also refer to the handbook for details.

Before Your Trip

Before you leave on your adventure, there are at least four health-related things you should do. Please check the handbook for specifics, but for now, here’s the short list:

Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting.Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor.Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.)

What to Bring

In an effort to help you bring less, we have included checklists within the handbook, which have been compiled from suggestions by Trip Leaders and former travelers. The lists are only jumping-off points—they offer recommendations based on experience, but not requirements. You might also want to refer to the climate charts in the handbook or online weather forecasts before you pack. Refer to the handbook for details.

Insider Tips

Get more out of the destinations on this trip through our Trip Leaders' Insider Tips. From suggestions on the best places to find authentic food, drink, and handcrafts, to insights on local customs and cultures, with the Insider Tips below, you can discover a wealth of inside information on your destinations—before you go.

Unique Food & Drink

Bajeko Sekuwa (Battisputali, Kathmandu) is a typical Nepali tavern located in Battisputali, which is very close to Pashupatinath Temple. The restaurant was started as a small shop with a few stools, and it’s now famous for a Nepalese meat dish called sekuwa. The dish is mutton barbecue that has been marinated overnight in typical Nepalese spices and herbs, and prepared in a charcoal oven. I visit this restaurant with my friends and family during the weekends, and I love being there because it offers a wide variety of Nepalese meat dishes (but mutton is the best). This restaurant has moderate prices, with an average cost of 200 rupees (about $2.25) per plate.

Special Places & Pastimes

My favorite bar is Bourbon Room Restro Bar (Durbar Marga, Kathmandu), which is located near the Royal Palace Museum in the heart of Kathmandu. It’s a lounge bar with a relaxed ambiance and a crowd that is mostly local. Half of the seating is couches, and the other half is table service. The lightening is dim, and the bar is quite spacious. On Mondays, you can hear acoustic music, on Fridays, they play classic rock, and you can hear jazz and blues music the rest of the days of the week. I like to order the Thai red curry with rice. Prices range from about 200 rupees to up to 500 rupees (about $2.25 to $5.75, plus taxes).

Unique Food & Drink

Honacha is a typical Newari tavern, located in Patan Durbar Square in Kathmandu, where a wide variety of delicious snacks are served. The food—which is based on the cuisine of Nepal’s indigenous Newa people—is prepared in a charcoal oven by a woman in traditional attire. While it’s a very tiny place without printed menus or proper seating arrangements, Honacha is the busiest restaurant in town.

Special Places & Pastimes

The Rum Doodle Bar & Restaurant has a nice ambiance, and is a great hangout spot for listening to local and Western music. It’s named after the book The Ascent of Rum Doodle, written by W.E. Bowman—a classic comedy about mountaineering in the Himalayas—and is also known as "40,000 ½ ft. Bar" after the height of the fictional mountain in the book. It’s a popular spot with mountaineers, and visitors to the bar are encouraged to write their names on cardboard yeti footprints and attach them to the bar’s wall—if you look, you can find Sir Edmund Hillary’s name among them.

Unique Food & Drink

Hans ko choyala is a traditional Nepali dish made of marinated barbecue duck with local herbs and spices. No special occasions are required to eat this dish, and it is readily available throughout the year. You can order it at any local restaurant, but one of my favorites is Nanglo Resturant (Durbar Marg, Kathmandu), one of the oldest bars in the Kathmandu, which sells local drinks and typical Nepali food. It’s clean, has a great atmosphere, and the prices are just right. The service is excellent, and mostly locals visit during evening.Photo courtesy of sukuchha on Flickr

Special Places & Pastimes

Khokana and Bungamati are two of our most ancient villages, located close to Kathmandu city. Even though they are only ten miles away from the heart of the city, when you get there, you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. As you explore these villages, you get an idea of what the valley looked like about 80 years ago. Khokana and Bungamati are two of the very few places which have saved their old traditions and craftsmanship. To get here, you can either take a taxi or a local bus.

Get more out of the destinations on this trip through our Trip Leaders' Insider Tips. From suggestions on the best places to find authentic food, drink, and handcrafts, to insights on local customs and cultures, with the Insider Tips below, you can discover a wealth of inside information on your destinations—before you go.

Iconic Items & Handcrafts

A Nepalese singing bowl is a bowl made from a mixture of seven different types of metals—bronze, copper, tin, zinc, iron, silver, and gold. These bowls are used for the healing of pains and aches, and also for meditation, trance induction, relaxation health care, and personal well-being. The regular practice of bowl therapy is known to de-stress and calm the mind and body. Singing bowls use an ultrasound technique, which is caused by vibration. The healer puts the bowl on a particular part of the body, and rubs a hard stick around the rim of the bowl, which produces vibration that cures the pain. It’s used in some Tibetan rituals (such as Shamanism) as well. The sound of the vibration of the singing bowl is also used for concentration during meditation. There are healers in the city of Patan, and travelers can find singing bowls in the local market there. The cost of a singing bowl will depend on its weight, sound, and quality.

Iconic Items & Handcrafts

Nepal is famous for its thangkas, which are paintings displaying Buddhist philosophy on a stretched cotton cloth. You can find thangkas throughout the country, but the Boudhanath Stupa area in Patan has a lot of schools where they teach young monks to paint the thangkas. Prices depend on the quality of the paintings, and they can cost as much as $1000 (U.S.)—but you can also find small ones for $20-30.

Sanctuary Lodge

Modi River Valley, Nepal

With magnificent views of the sacred Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) and the Modi River, Sanctuary Lodge is located at 3,470 feet amid lovely landscaped gardens. Built in a traditional Nepali design, the lodge offers authentic ambiance in a spectacular setting. Ten rustic-style rooms include a private bath with shower.

Waterfront Hotel

Pokhara, Nepal

This resort is the perfect location from which to explore the scenic town of Pokhara. Its 60 rooms include a hair dryer, Internet access, air-conditioning, minibar, and coffee- and tea-making facilities.

Seti River Camp

Seti Valley, Nepal

Located just above the Seti River, this safari-style camp features 21 permanent tents with twin beds, changing room, veranda, and attached bath. Solar-heated showers are available. You’ll be able to take a refreshing dip in the river, relax in a hammock, and share your evenings around a driftwood campfire.

Jungle Villa Resort

Chitwan, Nepal

Sitting on two hectares of forest, Jungle Villa Resort features 14 cottages overlooking the Rapti River and Chitwan National Park. Each room is equipped with air-conditioning or a fan, as well as satellite TV and a private bath. On-site, guests can enjoy a restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, and Nepali cuisine.

Extensions

Lemon Tree Premier Hotel

Delhi, India

Conveniently located, Lemon Tree Premier Hotel is about 2.5 miles from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. On site, guests can enjoy the hotel’s fitness center, swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Each of the hotel’s 280 guest rooms includes complimentary wireless Internet, satellite TV, a minibar, coffee- and tea-making facilities, an electronic safe, and a private bath with hairdryer.

Meri Phuensum

Punakha, Bhutan

Meri Phuensum is a family-run hotel situated on a hilltop overlooking Punakha town that offers an outdoor porch and lush gardens on its grounds. An on-site restaurant offers Bhutanese, Indian, and Chinese cuisines. Its 33 rooms include simple comforts and Bhutanese-style furnishings.

Hotel Tashi Phuntshok

Paro, Bhutan

Situated in the heart of Paro—nestled among paddy fields and rural homes—Hotel Tashi Phuntshok offers on-site amenities like a restaurant serving global cuisine and a spa. Each of the hotel’s 31 rooms offers a TV, complimentary wireless Internet, and a private bath.

Xin Ding Hotel

Lhasa, Tibet

The Xin Ding Hotel is located in the heart of Lhasa, near attractions like Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Tibet Museum. Each of the hotel’s 132 air-conditioned rooms features a satellite TV, safe, minibar, and private bath with hair dryer. On-site amenities include a restaurant and bar, as well as complimentary wireless Internet access in select public areas.

Shangbala Hotel

Lhasa, Tibet

The Shangbala Hotel is well-located in the heart of the Tibetan Quarter in Lhasa, just a short walk from Jokhang Temple and the Barkhor Bazaar. Each of its 70 rooms features a TV, telephone, minibar, and private bath. Hotel facilities include restaurants serving Chinese and Western cuisine, a bar, a sauna, and a currency exchange.

Gokarna Forest Resort

The Gokarna Forest Resort boasts breathtaking views of the Nepalese valley from all of its 95 rooms. Each room features a private bath and comfortable furnishings. A spa and golf course are on site.

Flight Information

Flight Options to Personalize Your Trip

Whether you choose to take just a base trip or add an optional pre- and post-trip extension, you have many options when it comes to personalizing your air—and creating the OAT adventure that’s right for you:

Personalized Air Routing

Work with our expert Air Travel Consultants to select the airline and routing you prefer

Upgrade to business or premium economy class

Customize your trip by staying overnight in a connecting city, arriving at your destination a few days early, or spending additional time in a nearby city on your own

Combine your choice of OAT adventures to maximize your value

Your Own Air Routing

Make your own international flight arrangements directly with the airline

Purchase optional airport transfers to and from your hotel

Extend your Land Tour-only Travel Protection Plan coverage and protect the air arrangements you make on your own—including your frequent flyer miles

OR, leave your air routing up to us and your airfare (as well as airport transfers) will be included in your final trip cost.

Standard Air Routing

w/out standard air$3495

w/ standard air$4995

Gateway

Travel Time*

Newark, NJ

18 hrs

Detroit, Washington, DC (Dulles)

22 hrs

Chicago, Miami

23 hrs

Atlanta, Boston, Denver

24 hrs

Houston, Minneapolis, Tampa

25 hrs

San Francisco, Seattle

26 hrs

Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Diego

27 hrs

Portland, OR

28 hrs

*Estimated total time, including connection and layover. Actual travel
time may vary.

The information above reflects approximate flight times from the gateway cities listed to Kathmandu, Nepal. Routing is based on availability and subject to change. You will receive your final air itinerary approximately 14 days prior to departure.

Solo Traveler Stories

Why Travel Solo on Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas

We're proud to offer the best value for solo travelers in the industry, guaranteed, with FREE Single Supplements on your base trip and all extensions. Travel with the leader in solo-friendly travel on Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas—and save up to $1580 per person versus the competition.

Our small group size and expert, resident Trip Leaders help solo travelers make personal connections and ensure peace of mind. Here are some thoughts from solo travelers about why this adventure was right for them.

"Our Trip Leader, Anup, showed respect and a high level of patience. He is very knowledgeable and is an excellent problem solver. He was always kind and extremely thoughtful—he made certain my birthday was a special day for me."

Lyn Brown, 6-time traveler
Fort Myers, Florida

Capturing the Beauty of Nepal Through a Camera Lens

Lynda Thorstrom, 10-time traveler, Olympia, Washington

When my children were young, our family spent three months each summer in a little cabin on Lake Okanagan in British Columbia. This family tradition helped my children to grow up appreciating the outdoors and the beauty of nature.

As my children grew older, my middle daughter, Nishon, and I began to travel internationally together. Since we’ve started, my daughter and I have been to Peru, Africa, and most recently, Nepal. Nishon is an avid travel photographer who loves to capture the wildlife and children of the destinations we visit.

Since Nishon and I love adventure—and especially hiking—when we began planning our most recent trip, we were intrigued by OAT’s Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas adventure. Nepal offered amazing hikes, visits to the countryside, and the opportunity to meet the country’s native people.

And this trip didn’t disappoint. We enjoyed some of the most incredible hikes. One morning, we woke very early to begin a trek into a small village. As we approached the entrance to the village, the sun was just coming out and the villagers began to emerge from their huts. Nishon grabbed her digital camera and started snapping photos of the amazing sight. It is a moment we’ll always remember.

And although we missed visiting Chitwan National Park, our wonderful Trip Leader, Sanjib Mishra, went out of his way to make arrangements for our group to spend the day driving and riding in more unusual ways than I can remember: Dugout boat on the river looking for crocodiles, bareback riding an elephant on the banks of the river, and riding in an ox-drawn cart, a pony-drawn cart, and atop an elephant in a basket looking for rhinos outside the park.

Nishon and I enjoyed so many wonderful adventures together in Nepal … and truly loved the beauty of the Nepalese people. While we were in Kathmandu, Nishon and I saw a petite, 103-year-old woman with the biggest and brightest smile we’ve ever encountered. Nishon quickly grabbed her camera and captured the sheer joy on this woman’s face. It was such a wonderful moment … and one that we can always cherish thanks to her photograph.

And the best part about these amazing memories is that we’re able to treasure them together. Nishon and her family live on a farm in Washington that reminded me of the beautiful hill farms we saw in Nepal. Several years ago, her husband built me a home on their property, where we can all enjoy the many advantages a farm has to offer. I can honestly say we’re best friends. We have so much fun and when we’re traveling, we feed off of each other’s energies. I guess you could say that we tend to be the “characters” in our group … and I think that our group members really get a kick out of us. We even have three fellow travelers from our trip to Nepal visiting us in Washington this year.

Our adventures allow us to take ourselves out of our normal environment and force us to rely on each other. Thanks to Nishon’s breathtaking photography, we’re able to journey to these places all over again from the comfort of our own living room.

Partner since:1994Total donated:$564,859

Making a difference in Nepal

Simply by traveling with OAT, you support the work of the nonprofit Grand Circle Foundation. Alan and Harriet Lewis created the Foundation with the mission of changing people's lives through travel — which includes both the travelers who journey with OAT, and the local people who welcome us so warmly into their homelands.

Learn more about our work in Nepal, and what you'll experience during your itinerary:

A Day in the Life of Tomejhong Village

Your visit to the Laxmi Primary School is just one aspect of your Day in the Life experience, which is featured on most OAT itineraries. Each Day in the Life is specifically tailored to showcase daily life in your destination—in this case, Tomejhong Village. You’ll get to know the local people through conversation and hands-on activities, gaining an authentic glimpse of what life is really like here—and not just the typical tourist’s version.

A Day in the Life of Tomejhong Village

Your visit to the Laxmi Primary School is just one aspect of your Day in the Life experience, which is featured on most OAT itineraries. Each Day in the Life is specifically tailored to showcase daily life in your destination—in this case, Tomejhong Village. You’ll get to know the local people through conversation and hands-on activities, gaining an authentic glimpse of what life is really like here—and not just the typical tourist’s version.

Meet the People of Tomejhong Village

The foothills of the Annapurnas are home to a school supported by the Foundation’s World Classroom initiative, so we’ve developed close partnership with local leaders, who are eager to welcome you into their daily lives. In our Day in the Life of Tomejhong village, we'll learn firsthand what it’s like to live in the shadow of these ancient mountains.

First, we’ll enjoy a chance to meet local children in their school (when in session) which is supported in part by Grand Circle Foundation. You’ll interact with both students and faculty here, and see firsthand the improvements made possible by Foundation support—and the support of travelers like you.

You’ll then depart for nearby Tomejhong village, where we'll explore and spend time with the hospitable people who live here. A Gorkha family will join us for lunch to share insight into their traditions and daily life. The Gorkha people arrived in western Nepal from India centuries ago, and trace their roots to the Rajput clan—part of the Kshatriya, or warrior class—from classic Hindu tradition. Their culture is a fascinating blend of their Hindu roots and local traditions like shamanism and Tibetan Buddhism, as we'll learn during this exclusive opportunity for real cultural exchange.

By the time we return to our Sanctuary River lodge in the afternoon, we hope you’ll come away with a richer sense of what life is like in the Himalayas and an appreciation for the warmth of the people who call this area home.

Supporting a World Classroom: Nepal

By funding improvements at local schools, the Foundation’s World Classroom initiative is focused on supporting society’s most precious resources: its children. In Nepal, you’ll visit a school funded by Grand Circle Foundation: Laxmi Primary School. Our projects here have included building a classroom, improving plumbing, and more.

Supporting a World Classroom: Nepal

By funding improvements at local schools, the Foundation’s World Classroom initiative is focused on supporting society’s most precious resources: its children. In Nepal, you’ll visit a school funded by Grand Circle Foundation: Laxmi Primary School. Our projects here have included building a classroom, improving plumbing, and more.

"It was eye-opening to see how the government schools function in small towns, with many children not starting school until 8 or 9 and many students leaving before finishing lower secondary school…. We support the work you are doing with schools throughout the world."

Ahlene & David Welsh
Claremont, California

Laxmi Primary School

Partner since: 2009 • Total donated: $7,670

We've been supporting the community of Tomejhong since early 2009, and we're looking forward to having a lasting impact on the lives of the 30 students who attend the Laxmi School. It has only been the last five decades that ordinary Nepali children were able to enjoy schooling as a result of the popular democratic uprising that ended the rule of the royal family. Today, five million students fill more than 20,000 schools in Nepal (from elementary schools to universities), and many of the more remote schools operate with very limited resources.

So far we’ve funded the building of a new classroom, and furnished it with benches for the students at the Laxmi School. We’ve also improved the school plumbing by adding a toilet, running water, a water pipeline and a reserve tank.

Alan and Harriet Lewis founded Grand Circle Foundation in 1992 as a means of giving back to the world we travel. Because they donate an annually determined amount of revenue from our trips, we consider each one of our travelers as a partner in the Foundation’s work around the world. To date, the Foundation has pledged or donated more than $97 million in support of 300 different organizations—including 60 villages and nearly 100 schools that lie in the paths of our journeys.

Photos From Our Travelers

On location in Asia

Here’s how OAT travelers have captured moments of discovery, beauty, friendship, and fun on previous departures of our Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas adventure. We hope these will evoke special travel memories and inspire you to submit your own favorite OAT trip photos.

Dan Abrams, 8-time traveler from Phoenix, Arizona, brings us this lost-in-time moment, as the golden light of Kathmandu bathes the ancient buildings and temples of the Patan neighborhood.

Local Kathmandu residents welcomed Nancy Donahue, a 16-time traveler from Newport Beach, California, to their bench for a chat. Ellen Corbett, 4-time traveler from St. Helena Island, South Carolina, happened by in time to capture the moment.

As 12-time traveler Flora Lee explored a rural village near Nayapul, she encountered these Nepalese ladies making preparations for Tihar, the Festival of Lights. Since there is no electricity in the remote towns, garlands of flowers “light up” the local homes.

Two monks walk beneath the watchful eyes of Buddha, a colorful accent to this composition by 8-time traveler Lynda Thorston from Olympia, Washington. The magnificent, 14th-century Boudhanath Stupa is the largest in Nepal and the center of Kathmandu’s Tibetan culture. The 13 steps on the pyramid at the top symbolize the ladder to enlightenment.

How to submit your photos:

Please be sure to include the name of your OAT adventure, along with the travel dates. Tell us where you took the photo and, if you’d like, tell us why. And don’t forget to include your name and contact information.

Please note: By submitting a photo, you (i) represent and warrant that the photo is your original work created solely by yourself and does not infringe the intellectual property rights of any party; (ii) grant to Grand Circle LLC and its affiliates a worldwide, royalty-free, perpetual, transferable, irrevocable, non-exclusive and fully sublicensable right and license to use, in any and all related media whether now known or hereafter devised, in perpetuity, anywhere in the world, with the right to make any and all commercial or other uses thereof, including without limitation, reproducing, editing, modifying, adapting, publishing, displaying publicly, creating derivative works from, incorporating into other works or modifying the photo and (iii) hereby release and discharge Grand Circle LLC and its affiliates, officers and employees from and against any and all claims, liabilities, costs, damages and expenses of any kind arising out of or relating to the use by Grand Circle LLC of any photo submitted.

Private Adventures—New for 2015

How do you arrange a Private Adventure?

It’s simple: You choose the people you travel with. You choose the departure date. You choose the size of your group. OAT does the rest.

Your lifelong memories are only a phone call away: Call us toll-free at1-800-955-1925

Group Size

Additional Cost

4-6

$600 per person

7-9

$300 per person

Now you can reserve an EXCLUSIVE departure of Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas with just 8 travelers. Enjoy a truly special adventure—starting from only $300 per person more than our published trip price.

The benefits of your Private Adventure …

Travel in an exclusive group of friends or family members

Work with your Trip Leader to create unique experiences and special memories

Tailor the pacing of activities—spending more time doing what interests your group most at the speed that fits your comfort level

Enjoy the security of knowing we have regional offices nearby

This program is available on new reservations in 2015 only, and cannot be combined with any offer within 60 days to departure or with our Group Travel program. The additional cost of a Private Departure is per person, on top of the departure price and varies by trip. Private Departures do not include any changes or additions to our standard itineraries. Age restrictions may apply to some itineraries and must be at least 13 years old to travel with Overseas Adventure Travel. Ask your Group Sales Team for details. Additional taxes and fees will apply. Standard Terms & Conditions apply. Every effort has been made to present this information accurately. We reserve the right to correct errors.

Beyond the Blue Horizon

The wildlife of Nepal

by Pamela Schweppe

About 29% of the country, however, is not alpine but subtropical, and is carpeted with large swaths of jungle.

When we think of Nepal, images of Mount Everest and the high Himalayas are usually the first to spring to mind—a terrain that’s generally no more hospitable to birds and animals than it is to human beings.

About 29% of the country, however, is not alpine but subtropical, and is carpeted with large swaths of jungle. It’s here where the rich wildlife of Nepal comes into its own. Take the Indian rhinoceros, for example. This lumbering fellow, who can weigh in at 6,000 pounds and whose hide is so thick it’s practically bulletproof, is also known as the one-horned rhinoceros—and it’s that horn (believed by some to be an aphrodisiac) that has led to the animal’s near extinction. Down to a total population of only about 100 a few decades ago, this species now numbers about 400, and vigorous efforts to combat poaching continue.

Rare beauties

In Nepal, the Indian rhino is most likely to be found in Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is also home to roughly 50 species of animals, 450 species of birds, 45 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 65 species of butterflies. During OAT’s Nepal & the Mystical Himalayas adventure, you may take your viewing platform atop one of the park’s most famous residents: an elephant. And if you’re lucky, perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of the endangered Bengal tiger. More than 80% of the estimated 5,000 that remain are believed to live in Nepal, with approximately 125 adults living in the Chitwan National Park as of 2010—a slow but heartening increase from the estimated 40 adults which populated the park in the 1980s.

Creatures of the forest

Among the other mammals found here is the gaur, a wild ox whose large size and curved horns immediately betray its close relationship to the bison, water buffalo, and yak. Deer are also abundant in Nepalese jungles, including the prehistoric-looking muntjacs—affectionately known as “barking deer” (because of its call)—and musk deer, whose musk glands are the source of the popular fragrance. You’re also likely to see monkeys—perhaps the pink-faced rhesus monkey, considered sacred to Buddhists and Hindus—as well as sloth bear and antelope.

Birds of a feather

Nepal is also a birder’s paradise, hosting more species within its borders than the entire North American continent! The country’s national bird is the Daphne, an exotic pheasant with brilliant plumage—which it’s not shy to show off when it stretches out its wings to dance. Kingfishers, flycatchers, and woodpeckers also thrive here, and as you float along the Seti River, you might spot black and white storks, egrets, and heron.

With magnificent views of the sacred Machapuchare (Fishtail Mountain) and the Modi River, Sanctuary Lodge is located at 3,470 feet amid lovely landscaped gardens. Built in a traditional Nepali design, the lodge offers authentic ambiance in a spectacular setting. Ten rustic-style rooms include a private bath with shower.

Waterfront Hotel

This resort is the perfect location from which to explore the scenic town of Pokhara. Its 60 rooms include a hair dryer, Internet access, air-conditioning, minibar, and coffee- and tea-making facilities.

Located just above the Seti River, this safari-style camp features 21 permanent tents with twin beds, changing room, veranda, and attached bath. Solar-heated showers are available. You’ll be able to take a refreshing dip in the river, relax in a hammock, and share your evenings around a driftwood campfire.

Sitting on two hectares of forest, Jungle Villa Resort features 14 cottages overlooking the Rapti River and Chitwan National Park. Each room is equipped with air-conditioning or a fan, as well as satellite TV and a private bath. On-site, guests can enjoy a restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, and Nepali cuisine.

Conveniently located, Lemon Tree Premier Hotel is about 2.5 miles from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. On site, guests can enjoy the hotel’s fitness center, swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Each of the hotel’s 280 guest rooms includes complimentary wireless Internet, satellite TV, a minibar, coffee- and tea-making facilities, an electronic safe, and a private bath with hairdryer.

Meri Phuensum is a family-run hotel situated on a hilltop overlooking Punakha town that offers an outdoor porch and lush gardens on its grounds. An on-site restaurant offers Bhutanese, Indian, and Chinese cuisines. Its 33 rooms include simple comforts and Bhutanese-style furnishings.

Situated in the heart of Paro—nestled among paddy fields and rural homes—Hotel Tashi Phuntshok offers on-site amenities like a restaurant serving global cuisine and a spa. Each of the hotel’s 31 rooms offers a TV, complimentary wireless Internet, and a private bath.

Xin Ding Hotel

The Xin Ding Hotel is located in the heart of Lhasa, near attractions like Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Tibet Museum. Each of the hotel’s 132 air-conditioned rooms features a satellite TV, safe, minibar, and private bath with hair dryer. On-site amenities include a restaurant and bar, as well as complimentary wireless Internet access in select public areas.

The Shangbala Hotel is well-located in the heart of the Tibetan Quarter in Lhasa, just a short walk from Jokhang Temple and the Barkhor Bazaar. Each of its 70 rooms features a TV, telephone, minibar, and private bath. Hotel facilities include restaurants serving Chinese and Western cuisine, a bar, a sauna, and a currency exchange.

At dawn, you may elect to enjoy an optional flight to Everest, known in Tibet as Sagarmatha or “Goddess of the Sky.” Avid climbers call this mountain “the ultimate climb,” and with its astounding summit height of 29,029 feet above sea level, Mount Everest earns the title of the tallest peak on Earth. Rising majestically out of the Himalayan range, its snowy peak and intricate geography offer us breathtaking views from the air.

Rameshwar Shrestha

99% of travelers rated Rameshwar as "excellent"

"Ram was an outstanding Trip Leader—highly organized, energetic, flexible, knowledgeable, and friendly with great attention to detail. He was available 24/7 and was willing to answer all our questions. He related to us as friends, not just travelers, and really shared himself with all of us. He is a huge asset to OAT."

Marilyn & James Arp 14-time travelers from McCall, Idaho

Get to know Rameshwar

Born

Kathmandu, Nepal

Resides

Kathmandu, Nepal

Languages

English, Nepali, Newari, Hindi, Italian

Hobbies & Interests

Reading books, listening to music, helping the needy

With us since 2008

My country has grown a lot in the last 15 to 20 years. I remember when I was in school there was no Internet, no blacktop roads, and no cell phones. We knew very little about the outside world, and we used to spend our free time playing outdoors, because there wasn't any indoor entertainment. But now people’s lifestyles are very different here.

Because I grew up in the tourist hub of Kathmandu—the Thamel neighborhood—I had many friends working in the travel trade and handcraft business, and seeing them learning foreign languages, culture, and traditions inspired me to do so, as well. I had studied the history and culture of Europe a little bit in school and dreamed of traveling there. So when I couldn't find work in Business Management (the subject of my degree), I decided to become a Trip Leader to learn more about other cultures, and to make my own travel dreams come true. I've been working as a guide for 15 years now, and it feels like it was my destiny.

I enjoy introducing travelers to the people and culture of Nepal, as well as its scenic beauty, and I also like to share my personal life story with my OAT travelers, because it’s so different from the stories from other parts of the world, and reflects the changes my country has gone through.

Sanjib Mishra

99% of travelers rated Sanjib as "excellent"

"I have taken dozens of trips with numerous travel companies. Sanjib Mishra shines as the BEST Trip Leader of all. His knowledge of Nepal is vast. He anticipated every need and demonstrated genuine care and concern for each member of the group."

Carolyn Wolfe 5-time traveler from Tampa, Florida

Get to know Sanjib

Born

Kathmandu, Nepal

Resides

Kathmandu, Nepal

Languages

English, Nepali, Hindi

Hobbies & Interests

Reading books, listening to music, gardening

With us since 2010

Life was lots of fun when we were kids. We had no television, and there was only one radio in our house. I was the youngest in my family, and I never got to hear my favorite songs on the radio! But we did a lot of outdoor activities, like playing soccer and badminton and jumping from haystacks. I walked to school with a group of friends, and we would sometimes hitchhike on local trucks, which was a lot of fun.

Tourism was becoming a big thing in the early 70s. There was a particular street called the “freak street,” where tourists used to go to hang out. I always wanted to go and talk to them, but since my English was poor, I had trouble communicating with them. I was lucky that my father was a professor and went to the University of Oregon in the 60s. He helped me improve my English and told me a lot about the West and their culture. His motto was, “Speak in English, think in English, and dream in English.” He would make me memorize ten lines from the newspaper every day. He was the one who really helped me through troubled times.

OAT travelers are certainly different than other tourists in the sense that they want to interact more with the local people. When I’m leading my tours, my priority is to make sure that my travelers get a firsthand experience. I remember during one of my tours, we were driving to Chitwan and saw villagers harvesting rice. We got off the bus and joined the locals harvesting the rice with sickles—and later everyone was beating it against the rocks to take the grain off. For many of them, it was an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Krishna Kunwar

99% of travelers rated Krishna as "excellent"

"Krishna went the extra mile to make this trip fabulous. He was always enthusiastic and helpful, and we felt like his friends. His sensitivity and humor are tops. He is warm and very personable, and he gave equal attention and humor to everyone."

Judith Aylward 5-time traveler from Spokane, Washington

Get to know Krishna

Born

Garamuni, Nepal

Resides

Kathmandu, Nepal

Languages

English, Nepali, Hindi

Hobbies & Interests

Watching and playing soccer, cooking

With us since 2011

Growing up in my country was an up-and-down experience. When there was peace in Nepal, everything seemed easy. We could do whatever we wanted, say whatever we wanted, and go wherever we wanted. The changing political scenario forced us to think twice before we did or said anything. Now that peace has returned to Nepal, things are slowly going back to normal again. The restoration of peace in Nepal means that tourism will definitely grow.

Traveling has always been a passion in my life. From my childhood days, I never wanted to stay idle at home during my holidays. As soon as I would find a little time, I would immediately start exploring new places. At one point, a foreigner arrived at my school to do volunteer work. I was very happy to show her around the city. I had enjoyed that experience very much, so when I got older and the time came for me to decide on my career, I remembered those days and recalled how much I had enjoyed showing the volunteer around. That recollection and my continuing passion for travel significantly influenced my decision to become a guide.

The thing I love most about my country is its people. The smiles and the openheartedness of the Nepali people are something to be proud of. Throughout my career as a guide, I have received numerous comments about the hospitality, honesty, and general politeness of the Nepali people. Whenever I accompany travelers through my country, I want them to experience Nepal’s cultural, linguistic, ethnic, and geographical diversity. I believe that only when travelers have grasped the vast diversities of my relatively small country will they have really experienced Nepal.

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Grand Circle Foundation

Alan and Harriet Lewis created the nonprofit Grand Circle Foundation with the mission of changing people’s lives through travel—which includes both the travelers who journey with OAT, and the local people who welcome us so warmly into their homelands.

Cuba People-to-People

Grand Circle Foundation is one of the few organizations sanctioned by the U.S. government to offer legal, fully-licensed travel to Cuba. By limiting our group size to just 12-20 participants on each of our two unique programs, we’re able to provide you with rich insights into Cuban life.

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Grand Circle Gallery

Grand Circle Gallery in Boston invites you to view our extensive collection of vintage travel posters and breathtaking black-and-white photography from Alan and Harriet Lewis’ private collection, as well as special exhibits on other travel-related themes.

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